GML and WFS - Experiences from the Field
Don Murray, President of Safe Software Inc
One of the most powerful aspects of GML is the freedom it gives users to define their own custom application schemas. This capability provides extraordinary flexibility to data modelers, making it ideal for organizations like Ordnance Survey to use for data publication. Yet, the flexibility for ad hoc data sharing hinders interoperability.
When looking at WFS technology, interoperability issues are relevant and need to be addressed. To realize the dream where clients can discover, connect, and use data automatically with thousands of WFS servers, one must implement changes..Thus, while WFS and ad hoc sharing of data have seemingly different requirements, they both face the same problem. The problem and a solution to this will be discussed. Furthermore, this session will compare the good and not-so-good of GML and will show how to make GML useful for both data publication and ad hoc data interoperability. Current OGC proposals that are aimed at addressing the issues will also be covered.